A news release from The Hartford said almost half of
those surveyed (46%) say they’ve upped their savings
compared to a year ago, with nine out of 10 saying they’re
saving at least as much as last year. Of those who say
they’re saving more:

65% cited a raise in salary as the reason

49% decided to contribute a greater percentage of
salary

4% claimed they have become more concerned about
retirement savings

12% said they had become more active in following
the market

nearly 70% of respondents say they look for
investments that can provide guaranteed income for
life.

Investors say that historical performance is by far
their most important consideration when choosing funds in
which to invest. Forty five percent ranked historical fund
performance as most important, while 22% ranked it second
on their list. Some 12% of respondents said fees were most
important.

The survey found that 76% would be interested in a fund
managed by a minority-owned firm, 83% would be interested
in funds managed by women-owned firms and 91% would be
interested in funds managed by a socially responsible firm
as long as the funds boasted top historical
performance.

Most respondents described themselves as tech oriented
when it comes to investing. When broken down by specific
activity, 79% would be likely to process a trade or
exchange online; 80% would likely check real time quotes;
87% would be likely to read online fund reviews and 89%
would be likely to change their retirement fund
contribution amount; 87% would be likely to change their
personal information and 83% would seek online investment
education or advice.

The survey was conducted by an independent research firm
and polled 254 individuals between the ages of 18 and 65
across the country.